Hydroxy acids (HAs) play a pivotal role in skincare formulations that address dry skin, acne, and signs of aging by modulating skin keratinization. The effectiveness of HAs depends on precise application, concentration, and adaptability to individual skin types. The effect of HAs on the skin must be monitored to ensure safe, effective, and personalized skincare. This review highlights current sensor technologies for HA treatment of the skin, including measurements of pH, skin hydration, pigmentation, and transepidermal water loss. In addition, we explored key sensing elements related to HA application, such as Ca2+ concentration in the epidermis, hyaluronic acid levels, and glucose in the interstitial fluid, as well as the HA concentration in biofluids. We also highlighted the role of advanced sensor technologies in improving HA treatment and provided guidance to dermatologists and researchers regarding the use of cutting-edge methods. Finally, we discussed the emerging trends and prospects of sensor technologies, highlighting the synergy between artificial intelligence and multimodal sensing for the realization of smart, personalized at-home skincare solutions.
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